July 4 Fireworks In DC: What's Allowed At Home

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The coronavirus pandemic has led to the cancellation of many Fourth of July fireworks events. As families look for ways to celebrate at home, it's important to remember the fireworks laws in Washington, D.C.

Many types of fireworks found in states with more relaxed fireworks laws are illegal in the District, except for use by licensed contractors. Illegal fireworks, as defined by Washington, D.C. code, are ones that move or shoot a projectile, explode (such as firecrackers, cherry bombs and roman candles), or emit sparks of flame greater than 12 feet. These can include bottle rockets, parachutes, buzz bombs, pinwheels, helicopters and jumping jacks.

In the District, the sale and use of certain kinds of fireworks is allowed. Residents should only purchase fireworks from a licensed retailer or vendor. An approved legal fireworks listing can be found on the DC Fire EMS site.

Legal fireworks include:

• Sparklers less than 20 inches in length
• Torches
• Box fire
• Fountains
• Cones
• Dip sticks
• Paper novelty items
• Colored lights
• Paper caps

Outdoor fireworks shows are only allowed with the approval of the Fire Chief, Director of the Office of Emergency Preparedness, Corporation Counsel, and Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

With the pandemic canceling many shows, the National Fire Protection Association encourages residents to find safe alternatives to fireworks. The association estimates fireworks started 19,500 fires nationwide in 2018, causing five deaths, 46 injuries and $105 million in property damage.

"Even sparklers, which are often considered harmless enough for children, burn as hot as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and can cause third-degree burns," said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at National Fire Protection Association.

DC Fire and EMS recommends the following tips for using permissible fireworks:

• Remember to ensure everyone is practicing social distancing.
• Never allow children to light or play with fireworks.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions before use.
• Be sure other people and structures are clear (50 feet) before lighting fireworks.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from flammable materials.
• Use longer lighting devices (a grill lighter is a good choice)
• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• Keep a bucket of water in case of a malfunction or fire.

SEE ALSO:

• Vienna’s 4th Of July Fireworks 2020 Canceled
• McLean's 4th Of July Fireworks 2020 Canceled
• Falls Church's 4th Of July Fireworks 2020 Canceled
• Greater Alexandria 4th Of July Fireworks, Events: 2020 Guide
• Herndon 4th Of July Fireworks 2020 Canceled
• Reston 4th Of July Fireworks 2020 Canceled